Matchday 6: What Happened in the 2016 Underwater Hockey World Tournament

Matchday 6 brought the drama, the goals, and a few surprises that kept fans glued to the pool. Whether you missed the live feed or just want a quick recap, this page breaks down the scores, the key moments, and the players who made a difference.

Key Matches and Results

The day kicked off with the South Africa vs. Kenya clash. South Africa edged a tight 3‑2 win after a late penalty from captain Thabo Moyo. The penalty came because Kenya’s defender mistimed a push and got a yellow, then a red, leaving them a man short in the final minutes. The win moved South Africa to the top of Group A.

In Group B, Australia faced off against New Zealand. It was a classic under‑dog story – New Zealand took a 2‑0 lead early, but Australia rallied with three quick goals in the middle period. The final 4‑3 score sent Australia to the knockout stage and knocked the Kiwis out on goal difference.

Europe’s heavyweight bout saw England take on France. Both teams played tight defensively, trading goals every ten minutes. The match ended 2‑2, meaning each side earned a point. England’s midfielder, Lucy Harper, earned praise for a clever back‑hand flick that set up the equaliser in the last minute.

South America’s showdown between Brazil and Argentina was a goal‑fest. Brazil’s fast‑break strategy paid off, resulting in a 5‑4 victory. Forward Marco Silva scored a hat‑trick, his third goal coming from a quick pass behind the defense. Argentina’s coach praised the effort but admitted the defensive lapses cost them a place in the quarter‑finals.

Players to Watch

One name that kept popping up was Kenya’s goalie, Aisha Omar. She made five crucial saves in the South Africa game, especially a fingertip block that kept the score level at 2‑2 in the final minute. Her reflexes earned her the day’s Player of the Match award.

Australia’s forward, Riley Bennett, turned the Group B match on its head. After a slow start, he scored two goals in a row and assisted on the third. His speed and accurate shooting make him a threat for any team in the knockout rounds.

England’s Lucy Harper, mentioned earlier, also stands out for her playmaking ability. She can create space where none seems to exist, and her vision on the pool floor is impressive for a midfielder.

Lastly, Brazil’s Marco Silva is a goal‑machine. With three goals today, he’s already the tournament’s top scorer. If you’re betting on who might win the Golden Stick, keep an eye on him.

That’s the lowdown on Matchday 6. The pool is heating up, the brackets are shifting, and the next round promises even more excitement. Stay tuned for the quarter‑finals – that’s where the real battle begins.